PrEP Disclosure Experiences of Gay and Bisexual Men in Guatemala.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce HIV transmission among gay and bisexual men (GBM). However, stigma can inhibit disclosure of PrEP use, which may limit uptake. This study's purpose was to explore PrEP disclosure experiences and how disclosure is associated with PrEP adherence among GBM at a sexual health clinic in Guatemala City. We conducted in-depth interviews with PrEP users (n = 18) and used an iterative content analysis approach. All participants had or planned to disclose their PrEP use to at least one person, most commonly friends and sex partners, though many were selective about who they told. Main reasons for disclosure were to educate others, gain social support, and clarify their HIV status. Concerns about stigma and emotional discomfort deterred disclosure. Disclosure facilitated PrEP access and adherence by enhancing emotional and instrumental support. Interventions providing opportunities for GBM to practice disclosure, including addressing others' misconceptions, could promote PrEP uptake and adherence.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Bartels, S; Castillo, I; Davis, DA; Hightow-Weidman, LB; Muessig, KE; Galindo, C; Barrington, C

Published Date

  • December 2021

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 25 / 12

Start / End Page

  • 4115 - 4124

PubMed ID

  • 33966139

Pubmed Central ID

  • PMC8573052

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1573-3254

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1090-7165

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1007/s10461-021-03276-y

Language

  • eng